YWCA backs Family Justice Center

Agency says security issues are being addressed.

Agency says security issues are being addressed.

April 08, 2006|JOSEPH DITS Tribune Staff Writer

SOUTH BEND -- The YWCA of Joseph County announced Friday it is once again throwing its full support behind the effort to set up a Family Justice Center in St. Joseph County. The YWCA had been one of the leading supporters from the beginning, but it withdrew its endorsement two months ago over security concerns about the proposed site for the center: the old First Bank building in downtown. The Family Justice Center would gather about 20 local agencies to provide services under one roof for domestic violence victims. It's fueled by a $1.2 million federal grant. The YWCA's renewed support comes after several meetings with the Family Justice Center's board and its security committee. At 7 p.m. Tuesday, the St. Joseph County Council is scheduled to vote whether or not to appropriate $2.7 million to help purchase the building. The council will meet on the fourth floor of the County-City Building. YWCA Director Linda S. Baechle said her agency renewed its support for several reasons. It saw the center's board was allocating "an adequate sum of money" toward security, Baechle said. The YWCA also was concerned about which floor the center would be on in the six-story First Bank building, preferring the ground level with a secure entrance for victims that is separate from the general public, she said. The building has two doorways off the public sidewalk. Peter Morgan, chairman of the center's board, said the current plan would put the center on the ground floor. The board is seriously considering a separate entrance for clients, Morgan said. He said the board would make the final decision about the entrance after gathering input from domestic violence victims. The YWCA's news release stated: "The YWCA is confident that the FJC is addressing victim security in a comprehensive and responsible manner. ... The YWCA is confident that the two organizations will work together in the future in a variety of ways." Staff writer Joseph Dits: jdits@sbtinfo.com (574) 235-6158